Issue Position: LGBTQIA Rights

We need advocates in the state legislature to continue to honor Karen Clark's legacy and her advocacy for women and the LGBTQIA community. The struggle for civil rights is still with us, and we need strong voices in positions of power to advocate boldly and without hesitation. LGBTQIA face gaps in income, health and housing that are not acceptable. The trans community, specifically black trans women, face the highest rates of domestic assault, random violence and murder as a result of their sexual identity. These issues are ones that I am passionate to bring to the fore and willing to fight for.

Conversion therapy is still a reality in the state of MN. I will be a bold advocate to end this anti-scientific practice, as it is one that dismisses homosexuality as a choice and is detrimental to mental health. I will advocate strongly for banning this practice, not only as a mental health professional but as a mother who knows that so often our children don't receive the support and positive reinforcement they need.

Education for our children (I have a son who is 14) needs to be flexible and dynamic to changes in society that are taking place. A health education system that promotes an understanding of the world that we want to see in the future needs to encompass a dynamic sexual education. Children today are more open and understanding to gender fluidity than previous generations, so we must continue to provide education and resources that fosters this growth and education around LGBTQIA issues. Access to comprehensive health and sex education resources reduce unwanted pregnancies and STI's, and keeps our kids both safe and informed.

Issues and challenges:

Trans youth and adults are at risk of threat of bullying, bodily harm and harassment at levels much higher than other communities. We need to support legislation that brings this community into full representation and protection under the law as unique and valued members of society. Inclusive laws that seek to expand our ideas of gender and gender fluidity are needed to create a place and opportunities for trans youth and in turn trans adults.
I oppose legislation that restricts students to use the bathroom of their choosing and their gender.
LGBTQ residents face gaps in housing, health care, chemical dependency, workplace discrimination and poor hiring practices at higher rates than other members of our community. I promise to be a voice for the community and to elevate these issues in the state legislature.
Health is a basic human right, and transgender Minnesotans, like all Minnesotans, deserve access to a strong universal system coverage. Health coverage that includes transgender people should create robust coverage that is tailored to their specific and unique health needs.
I support comprehensive sexual education in our schools.
I fully support banning conversion therapy in MN.

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